Two areas of interest identified in search for missing fishermen off Lewis

Two areas of interest have been identified for further investigation in the search for two missing men and a fishing boat off the Isle of Lewis.

The sites were identified by specialist survey boat, the Northern Lighthouse Board vessel NLV Pharos, east of the Butt of Lewis over the weekend.

The areas will now be assessed as part of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch’s investigation.

The update comes as the major search for missing fishing boat Kilda nears its third week.

Kilda was last known to be operating with three men on board near the Port of Ness in northern Lewis on October 13.

The body of 49-year-old Douglas Craigie was recovered in the area a few hours after the alarm was raised.

Murdo Morrison, 23, and Norman “Tam” Murray, 40, remain unaccounted for and are being treated as missing people. The vessel itself is also still missing.

Over the past few weeks, specialist teams have been brought in to aid in search efforts and find answers for the families of the three men.

Inspector Neil Taylor said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“It is imperative we get answers for everyone involved, and please be assured our efforts are continuing. We are grateful for the specialist work of NLV Pharos over the past weekend to progress the search and investigation.

“We continue to work with partners, including the MAIB, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts

“We would urge people not to put themselves at any risk.

“Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm.”

The families of all of the men continue to ask for their privacy to be respected.

If you have any concerns, or information, please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of October 13.